UNESCO chief condemns killing of journalist in Libya

Paris, France (PANA) – UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay on Tuesday condemned the killing of Libyan journalist Musa Abdul Kareem on 31 July in Sabha, southwestern Libya where he worked for a local newspaper.

“I condemn the killing of Musa Abdul Kareem, which calls attention to the great dangers journalists face when carrying out their work,” the Director-General said. “Even in areas undergoing unrest, all media workers should be able to safely perform their duties, which are essential for nurturing public debate in every society. I urge authorities to investigate this crime and bring the culprits to justice.”

Kareem was a journalist at Sabha-based newspaper Fasanea, reporting on hostilities between groups in the area. He and his colleagues regularly received threats for their journalistic work.

According to reports from the area, the journalist was abducted on 31 July, and his body was found later the same day.

UNESCO promotes the safety of journalists through global awareness-raising, capacity-building and a range of actions, notably the UN Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity.
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